It's fair to say that they hit on the latter pick, as Mitchell had 207 carries for 963 yards in his rookie season, despite playing in just 11 games.
Now, one year later, the 49ers are in a similar predicament, holding four running backs currently on the roster: Mitchell, Sermon, Jeff Wilson Jr., and JaMycal Hasty.
With another talented running back class, should the 49ers address the position in the draft?
If they choose to, I'd expect it to be in the later rounds, but wouldn't be surprised if the team selected one in the third round due to them being the best player available on the board.
However, as the team has proved time and time again, the 49ers don't need to spend a draft pick to find talent at the position; they've found a number of undrafted free agents who've turned into good role players, including Wilson Jr. and Hasty.
If they look to go the undrafted route, running back Stadford Anderson is an intriguing option.
Anderson, who attended Alcorn State in 2021, is a 6'0, 220-pound back that not only has power, but also the ability to be a change-of-pace back, a trait the 49ers have valued in a player like Elijah Mitchell.
Additionally, Anderson provides the pass-protection element that the 49ers currently lack in their running back room, as well as the chance to contribute on special teams, which the 49ers have looked to improve all offseason.
Anderson doesn't necessarily have to make the roster in 2021 but would be an intriguing project that, under the tutelage of running backs coach Anthony Lynn, could evolve into a solid role player for the 49ers over his career.
The Alcorn State product has low tread on his legs, as opposed to other backs, having played in a running-back- by-committee backfield over the majority of his career. However, don't mistake that for a lack of talent; Anderson showcased his ability to be a lead back against Bethune-Cookman, rushing 26 times for 115 yards and three touchdowns in the game.
Coming from an underrepresented program, Anderson is motivated, and looks forward to making the most of his opportunity ahead of the NFL Draft.
Written By:
Writer/Reporter for 49ers Webzone
All articles by Rohan Chakravarthi
Rohan Chakravarthi
Writer/Reporter for 49ers Webzone
All articles by Rohan Chakravarthi
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
George Kittle's latest recovery video should get 49ers fans hyped
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle suffered a torn Achilles during a playoff game in January. Just six months later, the All-Pro appears well on his way to being ready for the start of the 2026 season. On Friday, strength and conditioning coach Josh Cuthbert shared a... -
Should the 49ers bring back Deebo Samuel? Pros and cons of a reunion
Fullback Kyle Juszczyk and tight end George Kittle are both open to Deebo Samuel returning to the San Francisco 49ers. Samuel shared an Instagram post reading, "Let the chips fall where they may," and the two All-Pros said they have guest rooms available if needed. Naturally,... -
New ranking a harsh reminder of 49ers' costly draft blunder
The San Francisco 49ers have struggled to consistently replenish their roster with young talent through the NFL Draft, forcing them to spend heavily on veteran free agents to fill the gaps created by their missteps. But one draft misfire from the Kyle Shanahan-John Lynch era... -
49ers coach Kyle Shanahan nearly lost an eye in car accident, says Chris Simms
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan has taken a more hands-off approach to the start of training camp as he recovers from injuries sustained in a recent car accident. While none of the injuries were life-threatening, Shanahan suffered a broken nose, three broken ribs,...